Ottawa Should Seek Stay of Fishery Ruling

The province of Nova Scotia is recommending that Ottawa ease tensions in Nova Scotia fishing communities by seeking to suspend the ruling by the Supreme Court of Canada in the Donald Marshall Jr. fishing case.

Michael Baker, Minister responsible for Aboriginal Affairs, said the federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans should be doing whatever it takes to seek a legal "cooling-off" period, following the Supreme Court ruling.

Mr. Baker said emotions are still high in fishing communities, especially in southwest Nova Scotia, despite Minister Herb Dhaliwal's appeal for patience and restraint.

"We've had threats of violence and acts of vandalism," said Ernest Fage, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture. "It's fine to say bureaucrats are working on a long-term strategy. But these are real, tangible issues for people in this province. For the Supreme Court to make this kind of decision, it is only reasonable to expect a significant grace period so we can be practical about the ruling's consequences."

Premier John Hamm said he is committed to urging the federal government to clearly define who is eligible to participate in the native food fishery and to define the meaning of "moderate livelihood."

A task force of deputy ministers has also been formed to provide advice to government. The province will continue to work with those affected by the judgement to find fair and reasonable solutions.

Mr. Baker said he would also discuss these issues with colleagues from other provinces.